Seizing Opportunity and Supporting Others: My Time at Central Mallee Health
by Zac Farrugia
On the 22nd of July, I had the opportunity to spend the day observing at Central Mallee Health in Swan Hill as an Osteopathy student, seeing first-hand all the great work Louise Bibby and her team are doing.
Throughout my Osteopathy journey so far, I haven’t had much guidance or many opportunities to learn from Osteopaths outside of university. So when the chance came up to travel to Swan Hill, I knew it was something I had to grab with both hands.
When you’re passionate about something, it’s always inspiring to see other people who are so good at what they do. What stood out to me was how different each practitioner’s approach was. They each had their own niche whether it was being very rehab-focused, evidence-based, hands-on, or having a special interest in paediatrics. Every Osteo brought their own strengths, perspectives, and style of care.
I also had the chance to observe Dr David Hammersley, who recently transitioned into practice after graduating. David and I have known each other for years through our student Osteopathy journey, and he’s always been a great support for me. Watching him step into clinical practice so smoothly was really encouraging, especially seeing his passion for exercise rehabilitation shine through.
One thing that really stayed with me was how much work happens behind the scenes to make sure patients get the best possible care inside and outside the clinic. That’s what being truly patient-centred is all about, and it brought to life what we’re taught at university in a really practical way.
If I had to describe the clinic in a few words: unique, homey, and connected. It honestly felt like a home and the people there felt like family. I was comfortable from the moment I walked in. The lunchtime debriefs were another highlight; they weren’t just about clinical cases, but about connecting as people and sharing what the clinic stands for. It made me realise that every clinic has its own message or moral—something deeper that shapes the way they work and care for their community.
For me, that moral ties in perfectly with all the regional outreach work Lou and the team do, and with OSN’s mission: encouraging people to go above and beyond for others. That spirit is at the heart of everything I saw at Central Mallee Health.
This experience reminded me how important it is to take opportunities when they come whether it’s a chance to learn, improve, or simply ask questions, no matter how far away it might be. And what makes those opportunities so memorable are the connections you form with like-minded people who genuinely want to see you succeed.
A huge thank you to Lou, David, Madelyn, Megan, Jessica, Belinda, and everyone at Central Mallee Health for welcoming me into your family for the day.